PMPML’s dependency on hired buses without strict control a major cause of concern

Pune: The dependence of PMPML on buses operated by private contractors has increasingly emerged as a major concern for the city’s public transport system.

A series of issues — ranging from frequent breakdowns to a recent bus theft — have repeatedly put contractor-operated buses under scrutiny, often embarrassing the transport utility.

Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) owns only 684 buses, while 1,277 vehicles are operated by 11 private contractors.

During a recent board of directors’ meeting, PMPML approved the purchase of 1,000 new buses, besides deciding to hire an additional 600 buses from private contractors. “These buses will be added to the fleet in phases by the end of the year. With the new purchases, PMPML’s owned fleet would rise to 1,684 buses. However, the number of contractual buses will also increase to 1,877. While this narrows the gap, the priority is to improve the overall fleet size,” a senior PMPML official said.

Another official pointed out that PMPML’s dependence on funding from Pune Municipal Corporation, Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation and Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority makes it difficult to independently procure buses. “Budget approvals are required from the board, which includes the heads of these civic bodies. Hiring buses through contractors is quicker and easier. However, PMPML is keen to reduce this dependence, and the purchase of 1,000 buses is a step in that direction,” the official said.

Despite these efforts, activists and commuters argued that PMPML has not exercised adequate control over private contractors. “A majority of monthly breakdowns involve contractor-operated buses. While drivers are employed by contractors, conductors are PMPML staff. Even in accidents, contractor buses are disproportionately involved. The same safety and maintenance rules should apply uniformly, but the data suggests otherwise,” said Sanjay Shitole, an activist from PMP Pravasi Manch.

Data from April underscores these concerns. While 429 PMPML-owned buses broke down during the month, a staggering 1,960 contractor-operated buses faced breakdowns. In the financial year 2025–26, over 20 contractor buses were involved in accidents leading to 23 fatalities, compared to just two accidents and two fatalities involving PMPML-owned buses.

Officials attributed this disparity to accountability issues. “Drivers of PMPML buses are directly employed and are more cautious due to stricter consequences. Drivers hired by contractors face limited accountability. Even if removed after an incident, they often find employment elsewhere or are rehired later,” an official said. Similar concerns have been raised about maintenance standards, with allegations that contractors do not strictly follow standard operating procedures.

Following the recent bus theft, PMPML issued strict instructions to contractors not to hire drivers with a history of accidents. However, commuters believe stronger measures are needed. “For passengers, every bus is a PMPML bus, regardless of ownership. The transport body must take full responsibility and ensure higher standards across the board,” said regular commuter Arun Sathe.